Katrina

Issue: Nation Observes Second Anniversary Of Storm's Landfall.

August 29, 2007

Today, on the second anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, the nation's attention is understandably focused on the reconstruction of New Orleans and other Gulf Coast communities. Much work needs to be done before the nation's promise to restore the region is fulfilled.

This anniversary, however, should also serve a warning to others that the devastation brought by flooding in New Orleans could happen in other places, unless resolute action is taken. One of those regions is South Florida, where the Herbert Hoover Dike is a sitting duck for a hurricane.

The 140-mile barrier around Lake Okeechobee is faulty and portions are vulnerable to collapse in the midst of a serious windstorm. Depending on which study one accepts, waters from a ruptured dike would flood much of South Florida and may reach as far as northeast Florida.

Fixing the dike could cost as much as $856 million. It's a steep price, but one that has to be paid. Having seen the cost of negligence in New Orleans, South Florida can't risk gambling that we'll dodge storms in perpetuity. It's time the federal government steps in and meets its commitment.

The dike, however, is only the beginning of a long-term strategy required to deal with South Florida's water needs.

Water managers have to do a better job of publicizing the fact that water is not in unlimited supply, and that there needs to be much better management of this precious resource. Any promotions to conserve water should help consumers understand the benefits of using water-efficient appliances.

Permanent year-round water restrictions are essential to preserve water and protect coastal communities from salt water intrusion. Municipalities will also need to invest in water reclamation projects, a costly proposition that will need support of local taxpayers.

Katrina taught some harsh lessons on the Gulf Coast. South Florida would be well served by taking measures to avoid our own potential flood disaster, and to better manage water as a resource.

BOTTOM LINE: South Florida can say it learned a lesson by shoring up dike, using better water management.